Dr. Lawrence Loh, Medical Office of Health, advised that the number of COVID-19 cases in the Region of Peel continue to trend downwards and that workplace outbreaks are coming under control. He stated that when the Region moves into Stage 3 of recovery, it is anticipated that there will be sporadic outbreaks in social venues and gatherings, as has been seen in other jurisdictions.
Dr. Loh spoke of the critical need for everyone to continue to adhere to the core four behaviours of distancing; handwashing; wearing a mask where mandated or where distancing is not possible; and, getting tested if you have symptoms or have been in contact with someone who has tested positive. Businesses should implement measures that allow people to practice the four core behaviours, have a reopening plan and ensure that precautions are in place.
Public Health staff continues to contact trace to control outbreaks; coordinate with the healthcare system and community partners; and, provide data, recommendations, and guidance based on evidence through the Region of Peel website, call centre and social and traditional media.
Dr. Loh highlighted the launching of a new provincial digital solution for cases and contact management that allows real-time reporting of lab results to public health. However, as that functionality is being built, the most accurate data continues to be available on the Region of Peel website.
The Medical Officer of Health stated that he has recommended additional measures that should be considered for bars/restaurants indoor dining and gyms in advance of moving to Stage 3, as these sites have been the centre of outbreaks in other jurisdictions.
In response to a question from Councillor Crombie, Dr. Loh advised that staff are manually verifying case numbers prior to posting the data on the Region of Peel website at 1:00 p.m. each day and that the numbers reported at the provincial level are taken at a different time. He noted that there was a discrepancy in the numbers due to the migration of data between the Province and the Region, however, this has been resolved.
The Regional Solicitor advised that Council has jurisdiction and authority over health and safety matters which could allow the implementation of measures with respect to bars/restaurants indoor dining, gyms, as well as common areas within apartment and condominium buildings.
Councillor Saito requested that posters recommending the wearing of masks in common areas within apartment and condominium buildings be made available for printing from the Region of Peel website.
In response to concerns raised by Councillor Saito, Dr. Loh advised that staff will be developing communication aimed at youth and millennials to highlight the importance of wearing a mask when physical distancing cannot be maintained, among other measures
In response to questions from Councillor Thompson, the Medical Officer of Health advised that workplace health decisions rest typically rest with the proprietor and their Occupational Health and Safety department, though Public Health provides guidance in outbreak situations.
Councillor Starr inquired about cleaning processes at Peel Living buildings and was advised by the Interim Chief Administrative Officer that visitors are being screened prior to entry; cleaning protocols for shared spaces have been implemented; and, additional security measures are in place. Staff are also engaged in ongoing communications with residents.